AN ALL-SINGING, all-dancing volunteer is bringing the West End to patients at Rugby’s hospital.
Friends of St Cross (FOSC) volunteer David Harrop – who has performed in the West End, Las Vegas, Australia and New Zealand as a singer, dancer and actor – has put his talents to good use by treating patients on Ash Ward at the Hospital of St Cross to a special show.
David, who began volunteering at the hospital in February, has won the hearts of staff and patients.
His performance, based on the film Easter Parade starring Judy Garland and Fred Astaire, lifted the spirits of all who witnessed it.
David said: “Performing never becomes run of the mill – every audience is a new challenge.
“It’s a little like that volunteering here. I’m really grateful for the opportunity to give something back. The show went very well and was well received by everyone. I have received some lovely messages.”
Ward Clerk Lisa Moulsher said: “The patients loved it! They were waving their arms and one woman said she used to sing those songs with her dad, it was brilliant.”
David was working for Royal Volunteers for the last year delivering personal protective equipment and chatting to patients. He was put in touch with Friends of St Cross chairman Willy Goldschmidt and has since joined the team on Ash Ward.
David initially started helping with admin but is now welcoming patients, taking temperatures, preparing PPE – and even calling bingo.
Willy Goldschmidt said: “David has given us yet another example of how our volunteers have made a difference to the patient experience at St Cross.
“Since the first lockdown we have welcomed many new volunteers and have been able to start some new services, helping the teams in the wards and meeting and greeting patients at the various entrances to the hospital.”
FOCS volunteers have begun to join the team in the newly opened Maple Unit, and the team hopes to resume the Ward Trolley Service at the end of this month.
The Friends are now delivering more volunteer hours per week than they did before the pandemic, and have vacancies for more volunteers. Visit https://bit.ly/2RNys5z to apply.
